QUESTION
Hi Amanda,
What’s up? I’ve always been a morning swimmer. Now that the rainy season has arrived, I won’t have to miss my swimming sessions. I’ve heard that it’s risky. So if you could tell me if swimming in a pool while it is raining is a safe thing to do? What is the truth behind these statements?
Love,
Josie!
ANSWER
Hi Josie,
There is nothing to worry about, yes you can swim! It is said that swimming in the rain will make you catch a cold. Well, it’s only half right. People usually get colds after a rainy day. Rain is bad for you, or is it just a myth? It’s not rain that makes you sick; it’s a weak immune system.
Rain can trigger and facilitate the process of catching a cold, which is why we say it is only half true. Having a low body temperature weakens both your immune system and your body. When your immune system weakens, viruses and bacteria become more aggressive.
Swimming for a shorter amount of time doesn’t get you sick. Nonetheless, you might catch a cold if exposed to rain over a long period, such as hours.
But swimming in these situations isn’t a good idea:
When safety concerns arise, we must leave the pool. The rain, however, is not one of them.
A strong wind is blowing.
It can be quite dangerous to stay outside in a strong wind since things can be lifted into the air and fall, hitting people.
There is lightning.
Lightning is the most common cause of an inability to swim on a rainy day. It is necessary to find a shelter if there is too much lighting near the pool.
A heavy downpour.
Earlier, I said swimming in the rain is okay. However, if there is heavy rain, we must leave. Because heavy rain causes loud noises and reduced visibility, making it harder for lifeguards & instructors to keep you safe.
A mosquito-infested pool.
Even mosquitoes spraying gas are poisonous. It does more damage the more you breathe it in. It’s a no-go to swim when mosquitoes are around.
The pool is too crowded!
In an overcrowded pool, sweat, urine, and body fluid provide nutrients for bacteria to grow. Overcrowded pools just exacerbate the risk.
Green pool.
When pools turn green, they are no longer safe to swim in. Instead, the color change occurs by algae blooming in the pool and more bacteria. In green pools, you are more likely to contract skin diseases. Crystal clear water and a blue color should be the hallmarks of a well-maintained pool.
In conclusion, it is okay to swim in the rain! Unless there are any warnings of lightning or thunder, keep swimming. However, I have swum many times when it was just sprinkling. We hope that this article will help you better understand how to swim in the rain and when you should leave the pool.
